Leather has long been a symbol of luxury, durability, and craftsmanship, used in everything from high-end fashion to everyday accessories. But behind its sleek appearance lies an industry tied to animal suffering, environmental harm, and ethical concerns.
While often marketed as a natural byproduct of the meat industry, the true impact of leather production is far more complex—and far less sustainable than many consumers realize.
Hidden cruelty behind leather
Many people assume that leather is simply a byproduct of the meat industry, making it a more ethical choice than fur. However, this is a bit more nuanced.
The leather industry is a massive, independent economic sector that directly contributes to animal suffering and slaughter. Leather sales help drive the demand for factory farming and slaughter, encouraging continued harm against animals for financial gain.
Slaughter of animals
Leather comes primarily from cows, but also from sheep, goats, pigs, and even exotic animals like alligators, crocodiles, kangaroos, and snakes. In countries with no or very few animal welfare laws, animals endure extreme cruelty before they are killed for their hides.
- Many animals suffer through painful branding, castration, and tail docking without anesthesia.
- They are often transported long distances without food or water, leading to dehydration and exhaustion. Many die before reaching the slaughterhouse.
- In many slaughterhouses, they are killed using inhumane methods, including throat slitting while fully conscious, electrocution, and bludgeoning. Some animals remain alive and aware during the skinning process.
- Exotic animals, such as crocodiles and snakes, are skinned alive to preserve the quality of their hides, causing immense suffering before they die.
Environmental cost of leather
Leather is one of the most environmentally destructive industries due to the processes involved in raising animals and treating their hides.
Deforestation
The demand for cattle grazing land contributes to large-scale deforestation, particularly in the Amazon rainforest. Cattle ranching is one of the primary causes of habitat destruction and biodiversity loss, displacing wildlife and Indigenous communities.
Water waste & pollution
Leather production is water-intensive, using thousands of liters per hide. Additionally, the dyeing process releases toxic chemicals like chromium, arsenic, and formaldehyde, which pollute rivers and groundwater, harming wildlife and human communities.
Greenhouse gas emissions
The livestock industry, including leather production, is a major contributor to climate change, emitting methane and carbon dioxide in significant amounts. Cattle farming alone is responsible for approximately 14.5% of global greenhouse gas emissions.
Vegan leather
Vegan leather is making an uprise in the fashion world. With the advancement of sustainable materials, consumers now have alternatives to animal leather that are cruelty-free and environmentally friendly.
Plant-based leather
Made from sources like pineapple leaves (Piñatex), mushrooms (Mylo), apples, and cactus, these alternatives offer a durable, ethical solution. These plant-based materials mimic the texture and durability of traditional leather without the ethical concerns.
Recycled and synthetic leather
While some synthetic options like polyurethane-based leather still pose environmental concerns, new bio-based materials are emerging as greener solutions. Some companies are developing leather alternatives made from agricultural waste, reducing overall environmental impact.
Second-hand leather
If people choose to buy leather, opting for second-hand products or upcycled materials can minimize environmental impact. Purchasing pre-owned leather prevents additional demand for new leather production.
Vegan leather brands
Looking for high-quality vegan leather products? Here are some top brands known for their ethical and stylish offerings
JWPEI
JW PEI is a vegan fashion label that creates stylish, inclusive, and empowering designs for modern women. Committed to sustainability, the brand uses vegan leather made from recycled plastics, emphasizing social and environmental responsibility while maintaining a cutting-edge aesthetic.
Will’s Vegan Store
This ethical vegan brand creates carbon-neutral footwear, clothing, and accessories made in Italy and Portugal. Using bio-based vegan leather, recycled materials, and sustainable alternatives, the company ensures all products are cruelty-free and environmentally responsible.
Nanushka
Nanushka is a fashion house specializing in womenswear, menswear, and accessories crafted from carefully selected, low-impact materials. Blending traditional craftsmanship with contemporary design, Nanushka creates an elegant, modern wardrobe rooted in sustainability and conscious creativity.
Matt & Nat
Matt & Nat is a vegan fashion brand dedicated to sustainability and ethical design. Committed to using no animal-based materials, the company incorporates innovative, eco-friendly alternatives such as recycled plastic bottles, nylons, rubber, cork, and windshield resins.
Stella McCartney
Stella McCartney is a pioneering fashion brand committed to sustainability, ethical sourcing, and cruelty-free luxury. It’s a vegetarian company that avoids leather, fur, feathers, and exotic skins, instead prioritizing innovative, eco-friendly materials.
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